Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Telugu community in the United States for their unwavering support and love over the past 15 years. During her address at the Telugu Association of North America (TANA) 2025 event, the actress became emotional as she acknowledged the significant role the Telugu audience has played in her career.

In a video shared by Gulte on X (formerly Twitter), Samantha expressed disbelief that it had taken her 15 years to stand on the TANA stage. She admitted that she had heard about TANA and the close-knit Telugu community for years and how they have always been there for the Telugu film industry. "I never got the chance to thank you," she said, acknowledging that the community had embraced her from her very first film and showered her with love. She felt that she had arrived at an important juncture in her career to express her gratitude.

Samantha emphasized that the Telugu community in North America was among the first to appreciate her recent work in "Subham" (2025). She conveyed her deep appreciation for their unwavering support, stating that even through her mistakes, they never let go of her. She added, "Every step I took, every mistake I made, you still didn't let go of me. I am truly appreciative of that".

The actress revealed that before making any decisions about her projects, her first thought is always whether the Telugu audience would be proud of her. She thanked them for their support throughout her long journey, stating that they had given her an identity, a home, and a sense of belonging. Towards the end of her speech, Samantha teared up as she recalled how her film 'Oh! Baby' (2019) had earned a million dollars in the US, acknowledging the unconditional love of the North American Telugu audience.

Samantha's connection with the Telugu audience goes back to the beginning of her career. She debuted in Telugu and Tamil films and quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most sought-after actresses in South India. Her ability to connect with the audience through her performances has earned her a dedicated fan base.

Beyond her film roles, Samantha has also used her platform to express gratitude and acknowledge the support she has received from the Telugu film industry. She publicly thanked several South Indian stars, including Jr. NTR, Ram Charan, and others, for standing by her during challenging times, particularly after her divorce from Naga Chaitanya in 2021.

Samantha's journey has not been without its challenges. In 2012, she faced an extended period of illness that forced her to take a break from acting. However, she has consistently demonstrated resilience and a deep connection with her audience, who have supported her through various phases of her life and career.

Her speech at the TANA event underscores the special bond she shares with the Telugu community in the US. Her words resonated deeply with fans, who appreciate her humility and genuine appreciation for their support. As Samantha continues her career, she carries with her the love and encouragement of the Telugu audience, who have played a pivotal role in her success.